University of Richmond Athletics
University of Richmond
VCU Shootout
Men's Golf Makes Final-Round Charge At VCU Shootout
09/28/2011 | Men's Golf
MANAKIN-SABOT, Va. -- Making a final-round charge, the Richmond men's golf team finished in a tie for seventh at the VCU Shootout that wrapped up Tuesday at Hermitage CC.
The 283 was the third-lowest team score Tuesday, helping vault the Spiders from 11th a tie for seventh with Atlantic 10 rival Charlotte. Junior Nick Austin paced Richmond wire-to-wire and fired a final-round 69 to claim a Top-10 finish.
"Today was a good solid round for us," said head coach Adam Decker. "It was the third-lowest score of the day. If we can all get going at the same time, our potential for low scores is very good."
Austin, who started Tuesday on the ninth hole, kicked started his round with a birdie on the ninth, then birdied the par-four 18th and carded one of just three eagles on the Manakin Course's second hole.
The junior's three-under 69 came after rounds of 75 and 67 on Monday. Austin was tied for seventh with four other golfers and was six strokes back of the individual medalist - Scott Fernandez of Iowa State. Virginia was the team champion.
"A Top 10 for Nick is a very strong showing against very good competition," said Decker. "And I continue to be very impressed with freshman Colin McDade's play. He's very patient and steady."
McDade finished off his impressive tournament with a one-under 71 and placed T21st with a one-under 215 (72-72-71). Senior Brad Miller and sophomore Jack Wilkes each finished T39th at 219, Miller carded rounds of 74-72-73, while Wilkes followed up Monday's 74s with a one-under 71 on Tuesday.
Junior Daniel Walker rebounded well from an opening round 79 by posting a 74 in Monday's second round and an even-par 72 on Tuesday. He finished T68 at 225. Junior Jack Lessing fired a 74 on Tuesday and finished T77 at 227 (76-77-74).
Virginia was followed by East Carolina, Wichita State, Iowa State and Virginia Tech to round out the top five.
"We will have a quick turn around to N.C. State's event - a course we have some good feelings on," said Decker. "I know the three guys who were on the winning squad last year are excited to get back to Raleigh."
Richmond won the Wolfpack Spring Open last season and returns to Lonnie Poole GC next Monday and Tuesday for the Wolfpack Intercollegiate.
Players Mentioned
